Description
Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines tender steak, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rigatoni. This dish is customizable and ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta, uncooked
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the sliced flank steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the steak is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens—about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and steak back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and steak are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Divide the Cajun Steak Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan among plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Notes
Feel free to use gluten-free pasta or swap the steak for chicken or shrimp. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 40
Keywords: Cajun, Steak, Rigatoni, Pasta, Quick Dinner